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San Juan National Historic Site

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San Juan National Historic Site encompasses the city walls, bastions, and two major forts: Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal. El Morro, perched on the northwestern tip, is a six-level fortress guarding the harbor entrance, famous for its lighthouse and kite-flying lawn. The site also includes the city walls that once encircled Old San Juan. Visitors can walk the walls, explore the forts' interiors, and enjoy sweeping ocean vistas. Together, these structures represent over 400 years of military architecture and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Don't miss

  • Fly a kite on the grassy lawn in front of El Morro, a beloved local tradition
  • Walk the restored city wall from El Morro to San Cristóbal
  • Explore the garitas (sentry boxes) and imagine life as a colonial soldier

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Ways to visit San Juan National Historic Site

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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